HRH The Duchess of Cornwall visits Helen and Douglas House, Oxford

Met by Brian Buchan, the Duchess of Cornwall visited Helen and Douglas House where she met with some of the families supported by the hospice during the pandemic.  HRH has been patron of Helen and Douglas House since 2007.  Brian Buchan introduced HRH to Lord Blair of Boughton, Chair of Trustees, who then introduced Andrea Lambert, the Clinical Director.  Andrea took HRH around the newly transformed outside space, which provides an area for terminally ill children to enjoy as well as a peaceful space for families to spend their time in.  Funded by the Captain Tom Foundation along with many other donors, and completed in June this year, there is a specially designed sensory play equipment area, including a swing and roundabout for wheelchair users and outdoor musical instruments, alongside a water feature, comfortable seating areas and a variety of bright flowers and fragrant herbs. 

HRH was given the opportunity to meet five families in the garden, some bereaved and others whose children visit the hospice for short respite stays.  HRH heard about the challenges they have all faced throughout the pandemic and how the hospice has helped them by remaining open and providing the flexible care their families need. HRH was also given the opportunity to meet Darren and Kate Field from The New Driveway Company.  Darren was the Volunteer Project Manager for the garden. 

HRH made a short speech before being presented with a posy of flowers.